The B Word: Alva Claire

B is for… Looking the Business. Feeling your Best self. So Bad it’s good. B is for Browsing and Buying the looks from your favourite Brands. Being Bold and Bringing the most to every Browns ensemble.

Introducing a fresh series of the “The B Word”, in which a new group of our most Brilliant friends show us what they’re wearing and how they wear it (ie. do try this at home).

Alva Claire is booked, busy and blessed - you’ll recognise her from some of the most unforgettable shows of 2022. The model of the moment was catapulted into the limelight after making headlines for her Fenty runway debut in 2019. We’ve always coveted Alva’s wardrobe, so we couldn’t wait to see how she styled her favourite pieces from the Browns edit for the next B Word episode.

We talk fashion, family and fun memories with the London-born, New York-based model, as she gives us a masterclass in how good intentionally clashing prints can look.

Shop Alva’s Edit

Full Name: Alva Claire
Location: London/NYC
Occupation(s): Model
Handle: @alvaclaire
Three Words To Describe Your Style: Instinctive, moody, incongruous
Favourite Designer: Chopova Lowena

Tell us about where you’ll be wearing your chosen look.
Honestly anywhere, I’ll be wearing the look all this winter in different ways. I think it’s the perfect outfit for a chill gallery day.

Your edit features a few pieces from Marine Serre - what draws you to the french label?
I’m a big fan of tartan and I love the way the skirt has been constructed in an asymmetric silhouette with fringing on one side. I think it’s really cool that the label uses recycled fabrics - it makes the pieces more interesting to me. They’re re-made and have a new story.

Which is your most favourite piece from this outfit, and why?
The Marine Serre top. I love how it’s been constructed, the bright hues and shape of the pattern.

Talk us through how you’ve styled this look?
I started with the skirt and the top, I thought the way they clashed was really cool. I knew I wanted a long coat because the skirt is so mini and I found the perfect MM6 Maison Margiela double-breasted one in navy that hardens the look. Finally I chose patent knee-high boots from GANNI and paired them with some fish nets and loads of jewellery.

How do you feel in this ensemble?
Really good - it’s very me!

Please briefly tell us about your journey into fashion to date? What’s been a highlight so far?
Since I was little, I always knew I wanted to work in fashion but I had no idea I’d be a model. I was first signed at 18 and I went full-time about five years ago. It’s been a journey - I’m always growing and learning whilst having lots of fun. One of my highlights was walking for Versace!

In life, who’s an inspiration to you?
My dad. I can be thousands of miles away in an unfamiliar environment, with people I’ve never met, working on something new, and I can connect with all he’s taught me. That gives me power.

You were first signed as a model in 2011 - since your journey started, what’s the main thing you’ve learnt along the way?
The main thing I’ve learnt is how to channel different characters and emotions through my imagery. I want to continue to challenge and push myself as a model so I will always be learning. I’m so lucky to be able to travel with my job and I make sure I’m always wide awake and absorbing each place and all the new people I meet.

You’ve walked in a range of shows this SS23 season, have there been any favourite moments for you?
One of my favourite moments was walking through water for the Andrea Adomo show in Milan. And making new friends across the cities!

As a model you travel a lot and are always in different places, so how do you like to unwind when you’ve got some downtime?
It’s hard not having any routine but I’ve weirdly adjusted to the chaos. When I have down time I make good use of it - I go on long walks, drink juices, and enjoy massages. Also just get lots of sleep - you can’t compete with that! I love DR. BARBARA STURM’s calming serum and make sure to do a sheet mask on the plane so I don’t turn into a raisin.

What do you hope for the future of fashion?
Less hypocrisy. I hope that having a career in fashion becomes more accessible to people from all different backgrounds - working in the arts should be something that all young people should have the option to do.

What’s next?
That’s for me to know and you to find out!

What are two things you can’t live without?
My beautiful friends and lip balm.

Where in the world holds a fun memory for you?
New York! When I moved it was like jumping into the unknown. I felt really free, it was so fun.

If you were a piece of clothing, what would you be?
A big fluffy vintage coat that’s seen too much.

Tell us a secret?
No.

What’s the B word that best describes you?
Blessed.

Shop Alva’s Edit

Words: Sophy Davis Russell